India.Arie Chimes in on Zendaya Debacle: “I’m Sad That Things Like This Keep Happening”

Zendaya Coleman used India.Arie’s “I Am Not My Hair” as a tool of enlightenment in her personal letter to Giuliana Rancic and other negative people, who had distasteful things to say about her appearance on the Oscars red carpet.

As widely reported, Zendaya was discussed by a comment from Fashion Police co-host Rancic, who insisted the singer-actress probably "smells like patchouli… maybe weed" while commenting on the star's dreadlocks.

“I suggest some people should listen to India Arie’s “I Am Not My Hair” and contemplate a little before opening your mouth so quickly to judge,” wrote Zendaya on Instagram.

India.Arie took notice of the incident, and made in her point to voice her personal opinion:

“We need more more compassion in this world. Period… So I'm not mad at Giuliana Rancic. I'm sad at her,” states India. “I'm sad that things like this keep happening. I’m sad that theres (sic) an actual form of entertainment where people are excused to be snarky and unkind, that's the real issue.”

She continued: “What I'm baffled by is how we put people in boxes so easily… (The remark is) offensive. It has a racist edge. But also it's also (sic) just off base. Way off base. This is why people are mad… I love you Zendaya. You're empowerment and self definition is the most beautiful thing here!”

After writing her apology via Twitter, Rancic visited E! News on Tuesday to voice her growth from the situation.

She said, “I just want everyone to know, I didn't intend to hurt anybody. But I've learned it's not my intent that matters, it's the result, and the result is that people are offended, including Zendaya, and that is not okay… I want to say to Zendaya, and anyone else out there that I have hurt, that I am so, so sincerely sorry.”